Despite the release of Android 4.3 and its new security enhancements, the OS contains a flaw that has prevailed since Android v1.6. Recently, Bluebox security announced a security flaw on the Android OS that has rocked the mobile application market and has developers in a panic. The security flaw makes some applications vulnerable to attacks that could result in the exploitation of the OS data in its entirety, including all personal information of the user. In the wake of this revelation, Google has sent out patches to resolve the issue faced in Samsung S4. However, with Android offers some beneficial security features at an application level that can assist developers in building a secure application.

Android Malware Attack Facts

Android is a hot target for malware attacks. It is the most popular mobile OS (according to ComScore) and mainly because it is open source. This means the reckless download of untrusted apps have made the systems vulnerable to more malware attacks. The open android market is recently under the threat of sheltering malicious software. In fact, last February Google had to step in and remove 60,000 applications that were deemed unsafe. Now, this recently revealed security flaw allows malware attackers to infect an application to access personal information and device data.

Making Applications Safe for Users

What can application developers do to protect their applications when the OS contains a security leak? Fortunately, Android does have some useful security features at the application level that can prevent it from becoming vulnerable.

File system encryption - Encrypted file system to protect data if the device is lost/stolen

Permission-based system - User-granted permissions to restrict access to system features and user data

Permission-based application control

Android commands a major market share of 59% worldwide, and its popularity is rising each day.

But since Android is open source, it is weaker than closed systems such as iOS. The closed market of iOS tends to increase overall security, although it has its own weaknesses. Google allows for custom modifications to code that iOS does not. For example, SmartPhone manufacturers can modify the phone user’s interface. Android has already rolled out major updates on security features and we hope to see android catching up to iOS in terms of security in the future.

Get a free consultation from AllianceTek to discuss your mobile application development requirements and see how our team caters to your requirements.

Call us at 484-892-5713 or Contact Us today if you want to know definitively that your application is safe from malware or you need to create a malware-proof Android application.